Jerry Jaye Digs Down Deep To Aid Impoverished Farmers

In addition to the Hands Across America and Dance for Our Town benefits on Sunday, the Lehigh Valley will be the site for a benefit for the farmers.

The idea for the Farmers of America benefit concert came prior to the announced Hands Across America, according to Jerry Jaye, organizer of the local farmers' benefit.

"I had the idea back in December, and then after I saw the plans for Hands Across America, I didn't want to compete with them, but since I did have thing set up, we decided to go ahead."

The benefit at Ontelaunee Park, New Tripoli, will feature continuous music starting at 1 p.m. and include, in addition to Jaye, Suzi Deveraux, Mike Dugan and the Esquires, Oklahoma Dan Band, Cookin', Peggy Howard and Country Class and Double Dose. The event is expected to continue until 8 p.m., possibly later.

Jaye said he got the idea for the benefit after watching similar ones put together by Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard.

"I figured it would be a good idea locally to do something like that , not so much to raise money but to bring attention to the farmers' problems," said Jaye.

Proceeds from the show - admission price is $6 - will got toward the Farm Aid organization.

Performers are performing for free. The park is donating the space. Jaye is paying insurance, sound, lighting and other expenses. Tickets will be on sale at the gate.

The groups at the benefit play a variety of country, blues and pop music.

Jaye is host of his own show seen on Twin County, Blue Ridge and Berks cable television networks. He also raises horses and runs a riding stable.

"I wouldn't really call myself a farmer, but I depend on farmers to raise my horses in buying hay, grain and feed.

"I know the things they've been going through for years. They work around the clock. I have a deep respect for them," he said.